Old Testament
Micah 1:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
All of this is because of Jacob's rebellion and the sins of the house of Israel. What is the source of Jacob's rebellion? Isn't it Samaria? And where are Judah's pagan shrines? Right there in Jerusalem!
Compare translations
For the transgression of Jacob is all this, and for the sins of the house of Israel. What is the transgression of Jacob? is it not Samaria? and what are the high places of Judah? are they not Jerusalem?
What Micah 1:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Micah 1:5 highlights the reasons for God's judgment on Israel and Judah. The verse points out that the rebellion of Jacob (representing Israel) and the sins of the house of Israel are the root causes of their impending doom. It specifically identifies Samaria as the source of Jacob's rebellion, indicating that the capital city is a center of idolatry and sin. Additionally, it questions the high places of Judah, suggesting that even in Jerusalem, the heart of worship, there are pagan shrines. This reflects a deep spiritual corruption that has infiltrated both the northern and southern kingdoms, leading to their downfall. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of true worship.
How to apply Micah 1:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own lives for areas of rebellion and idolatry. Just as Israel faced consequences for their sins, we too must be mindful of our relationship with God. We should strive to remove any distractions or false idols that hinder our worship and commitment to Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Micah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Micah 1:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Micah 1:5
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Micah
- Author
- Micah the prophet
- Written
- Around 735-700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Micah 1:5 mean?
Micah 1:5 explains that the judgment on Israel and Judah is due to their rebellion and sins. It identifies Samaria as the source of Jacob's rebellion and highlights the presence of pagan shrines in Jerusalem, indicating widespread spiritual corruption.
What is the significance of Jacob's rebellion in Micah 1:5?
Jacob's rebellion in Micah 1:5 represents the collective sins of Israel, emphasizing that their disobedience to God has led to impending judgment. It serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from true worship.
What are the high places of Judah mentioned in Micah 1:5?
The high places of Judah in Micah 1:5 refer to locations in Jerusalem where pagan worship occurred. This highlights the spiritual corruption even in the heart of Judah, where idolatry coexisted with the worship of God.
How does Micah 1:5 relate to idolatry?
Micah 1:5 connects idolatry to the rebellion of Jacob by showing that both Israel and Judah engaged in sinful practices, including worshiping false gods. This idolatry is a key reason for God's judgment against them.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.